Socializing your Gordon Setter is one of the most important things you can do. Beginning this process at an early age is crucial to make sure your pet is used to the sights and sounds of the outside world. Without proper socialization, your Gordon Setter will be suspicious and withdrawn around strangers. Proper socialization involves getting your pet used to people, other pets and any other stimulation of your pet's senses.
When you first introduce your Gordon Setter to his new home, you should do it when there is minimum traffic in your home. If you have roommates or family, make sure your dog spends a few hours with just you in his new home. Once you've shown your new Gordon Setter his new home, you can comfortably introduce your pet to the rest of his family.
Introducing and acquainting your Gordon Setter with the other members of your family shouldn't prove too difficult as long as the entire family understands how to interact with a new puppy. Introducing your new pet to the rest of the world, however, will pose quite a challenge if you don't begin and continue socializing through adulthood. Most new owners have a tendency to somewhat isolate their new pet for fear of how they'll interact with others. Doing this will only guarantee that your Gordon Setter is incapable of properly socializing with or in the outside world. Most owners can successfully socialize their pet on their own, without the help of trained professionals.
If you feel confident that you can properly socialize your Gordon Setter, there are a few things you must know before you begin. First, you should begin the process of socialization immediately, taking your new pet on long walks around your neighborhood. This will get your Gordon Setter used to the people he will probably see on a regular basis and help him familiarize himself with common sounds in the neighborhood. Daily exercise can serve two purposes; keeping your dog healthy and socializing. Everyday, taking your dog on different routes will make other sights, sounds, people and pets less overwhelming and frightening for your Gordon Setter.
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